Medical Laboratory Journal

Molecular Epidemiology of Adenoviruses among Respiratory Infected Patients

E Tabarraei

Abstract Background and Objective: Respiratory tract infections (RTI) are the most common infectious disorders, worldwide. About 80%-90% of RTI are caused by four viruses such as Adenoviruses, 51 serotypes have been introduced so far. The aim of this survey was to evaluate the frequency of Adenovirus in respiratory infected patients by PCR method in Golestan province, Iran. Material and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 patients with clinical diagnosis of flu-like respiratory infection, 2010-2012. In addition to collecting demographic and clinical data, nasopharyngeal swabs were taken and transferred to the virology laboratory in viral transport medium (VTM), and evaluated by PCR method for Adenovirus after genomic extraction. Using SPSS v.11 software, we analyzed the data. Results: Thirty-seven (9.2 %) were positive for Adenovirus. No significant correlation was found between being positive for Adenovirus and the variables such as age, gender and season. Clinical signs were coughing (27 73%), body pain (25 67.6%), and fever (24 64.9%). Thirty-five of the patients (94.5%) had at least one symptom. Conclusion: Our findings are consistent with other research conducted in Iran and other countries. There is a significant correlation between Adenovirus infection and clinical symptoms. Keywords: Respiratory Infection, Adenovirus, PCR, Golestan, Iran

Cytotoxic Effect of Boswellia Serrata Hydroalcholic Extract on Human Cervical Carcinoma Epithelial Cell Line

S Forouzandeh

Abstract Background and Objective: Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women. Boswellia serrata is a medicinal herb with anticancer, antibacterial, antiulcer, antifungal properties. Since the antitumor effect of this medicine has not been studied on cancer cell lines, we aimed to investigate the antitumor effect of Boswellia serrata on cervical cancer cell lines. Material and Methods: To assess the anti-cancer effect of Boswellia serrata extract, HeLa cell lines were cultured , propagated and placed with different doses of Boswellia serrata (12.5,25, 50 and100 µg/ml) for 24,48and72 hours. After that, MTT test was used to determine the cellular toxicity of the extract. Results: The results of the MTT test showed that this extract has dose-dependent and time-dependent anti cancer effect on Hela in that the highest effect was seen with 100 µg/ml of extract for 72 hrs. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) for 24 and 48 hrs were 12.5 and 50 µg/ml, respectively. In 72 hours, due to increase of incubation period in all concentrations, the number of killed cells was more than 50 percent. Consequently, IC50 was not observed for this period of time. Conclusion: Considering dose-dependent and time-dependent anti cancer effect, Boswellia serrata extract can inhibit the growth of Hela cells. Keywords: Hela Cell MTT Test Boswellia Serrata Extract Cervical Cancer

Homocystein Level and Total Antioxidant Capacity in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

MT Goodarzi

Abstract Background and Objective: Oxidant-antioxidant imbalance plays a key role in pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aimed to evaluate homocystiene and total antioxidant capacity in COPD patients, compared to smoker and non-smoker healthy people. Material and Methods: We measured total antioxidant capacity with Cayman Kit, uric acid with Pars Azmoon kit٫ homocysteine with ELISA Kit and inflammatory cells (leukocytes) in 29 COPD patients, 29 smokers and 29 non-smokers. Results: Uric acid was significantly higher in COPD patients compared to healthy smokers and healthy non-smokers (p<0.05). Total antioxidant capacity was significantly lower in COPD patients compared to healthy, non smokers (p=0. 003). In COPD patients, homocysteine and leukocytes levels were significantly higher than those in healthy smokers (P<0.05) and healthy non- smokers (p<0.001). Conclusion: According to high inflammatory cells and low antioxidant capacity in COPD, early administration of appropriate medication is recommended to reduce systemic and topical inflammation. Reduction in the exposure to oxidizing compounds can slow the process of degradation and damage to lungs. Keywords: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Homocysteine Oxidative Stress

Changes of Liver Trans-Aminases after a Period of Selected Aerobic Training in Postmenopausal Women

P Farzanegi

Abstract Background and Objective: Fatty liver disease is one of the most common diseases in postmenopausal women. While regular exercise can decrease the complication of this disease, it has not been clearly identified. Thus, we aimed to investigate the effect of 6-weeks of aerobic training on Alanine transaminase, Aspartate Aminotransphrase and Alkaline phosphatase changes in menopausal women. Material and Methods: In this Semi-empirical study, 20 postmenopausal women were randomly divided into equal experimental and control groups. The experimental group participated in a controlled aerobic training at 40-60 percent of maximal heart rate. The program was the three training sessions per week (45-60 minutes) for six weeks. By being fast for 12 hours, blood samples were taken before and after 6 weeks. Results: After six weeks, the level of Alanine transaminase, Aspartate Aminotransphrase and Alkaline phosphatase decreased significantly in experimental group (p<0.05), in contrast with control group. Also, there were no significant changes in the baseline characteristic of participants, liver enzymes level and lipid profile between experimental and control groups. Conclusion: The findings showed that six-weeks of aerobic training can diminish liver enzymes but it has not any effect on lipid level. Key words: Fatty Liver Disease Menopausal Aerobic Training, Liver Trans-Aminases

Comparison of Two Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Study of C - Reactive Protein

F Koohsar

Abstract Background and Objective: C - reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein produced in liver. It is less than 5 mg per deciliter in the serum and body fluids of normal individuals, but it is increased suddenly within a few hours following inflammatory reaction. In bacterial and viral infections, active rheumatic fever, acute myocardial infarction and rheumatoid arthritis are also increased. The aim of this study was to investigate CRP level by Qualitative and Quantitative methods. Material and Methods: The CRP of 200 patients was investigated by quantitative and qualitative methods. Qualitative CRP testing was conducted three times by different people, using two kit of bionic and Omega, and then the mean of the results was reported. For quantitative CRP testing, Immunoturbidimetry was used. Results: In qualitative CRP test by Bionic kit: 180 (90%) were negative, 6 (3%) weakly positive, 9 (4.5%) +1 and 5 (2.5 %) were + 2. In qualitative CRP test by Omega Kit: 148 (74%) were negative, 32 (16%) weakly positive, 13 (6.5%) +1, 4 (2%) +2 and 3 (1.5%) were +3. A high percentage of Qualitative results, which were weakly positive, became negative by Quantitative methods. The Qualitative results of +1 and the next became positive by Quantitative methods. Conclusion: It seems that in the early stages of inflammatory disease, quantitative methods are preferred to qualitative methods. Also, in cases that the CRP test results are weakly positive by qualitative methods, they should be controlled by quantitative methods too. Keywords: CRP CRP Test Quantitative Qualitative CRP Test

Genotyping of C and F Regions of Plasmodium Falciparum EBA-175 in South-East of Iran

A Jamshidi

Abstract Background and Objective: The Plasmodium falciparum EBA-175, via Sialic acid dependent glycophorin A, binds to red blood cells and thus plays a critical role in cell invasion. Some part of second allele in its gene encoding in FCR-3 (Section F) and CAMP (Section C) can be found. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum EBA-175KD alleles in southeastern Iran. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, using polymerase chain reaction Nest (Nested-PCR) with specific primers was used for the two parts of the EBA-175 gene to be proliferated. Ninety–four microscopic positive blood samples from individuals infected by Plasmodium falciparum were obtained from four different locations in southeastern Iran. Results: Of 94 positive samples, 88 were antigen EBA-175KD. Genotype CAMP (714 bp) and FCR-3 (to 795 bp), respectively, in 31 (32.97 %) and 49 (52.12 %) were found. Eight samples have both FCR-3 and CAMP. Conclusion: Both of EBA-175KD dimorphic genes were found. The frequency of FCR-3 allele was higher in the South East of Iran. Thus, this pattern can be considered in making Plasmodium falciparum vaccines for this area. Key words: Plasmodium Falciparum Erythrocyte Binding Antigen-175 South-East of Iran

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections in Rehabilitation Centers in Golestan Province, Iran

SH Gholami

Abstract Background and Objective: Given the importance of having knowledge about intestinal parasitic infections in rehabilitation centers, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in the disabled. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 196 stool specimens obtained from four rehabilitation centers in Golestan province, 2009. Triple fecal samples were collected and examined by direct wet Mount, Formalin-ether concentration technique and Trichrome permanent staining (with optical microscope). Results: Of 196 specimens, 24 (12.3 %) had parasitic protozoan infection (5 species) and worm (1 species). The prevalence of intestinal protozoa was 11.8 %, and the highest rate of infection was related to Blastocystishominis (4.2%) and Giardia lamblia (3.1%). The rate of infection was the highest in under 9 and 20-29 years (4.1%) and the lowest in over 40 (0.5%). The prevalence in mentally handicapped was 9.2% and in physically disabled was 2.5%. Conclusion: Due to serious complications of Amoebiasis, Giardiasis and other parasitic infections, it is essential to be careful about personal and social hygiene in these centers. Keywords: Intestinal Parasitic Infections Disabled Rehabilitation Centers Golestan Province.

Comparison of Six Culture Methods for Salmonella Isolation from Poultry Fecal Samples

R Morshed

Abstract Background and Objective: Salmonellosis is one of the most important food-borne bacterial zoonotic diseases worldwide, and poultry and its products are the major sources for salmonella transmission to human. Isolation of Salmonellaenterica from poultry needs bacteriologic enrichment and selected cultures of fecal samples. In this study, different culture methods for the isolation of salmonella from fecal samples were compared. Material and Methods: Forty- five positive samples from infected farms and 45 negative samples from normal farms were processed using enrichment media including tetrathionate broth, selenite cistine and Rappaport-Vassiliadis. Then the samples were incubated in selective cultures, and after 24 h, their results were compared with standard method. Results: Specificity of all methods for salmonella isolation was 100%, and salmonella was not isolated from the negative samples. The highest susceptibility was related to the method in which the sample first in Selenite cistine and later in Rappaport-Vassiliadis was enriched (100%). Enrichment in Rappaport-Vassiliadis could isolate 41 salmonella from 45 positive samples (91%) while the result of enrichment in tetrathionate was 6 isolates (13.3%). Conclusion: This study shows that enrichment in selenite cistine and then in Rappaport-Vassiliadis is currently the best method for isolating salmonella from fecal samples of poultry. Key words: Salmonella Bacteriologic Culture Diagnosis Isolation Enrichment Poultry

Frequency of Bacterial Contamination and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns in Devices and in Personnel of Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Units

M Alebouyeh

Abstract Background and Objective: This study was aimed to determine the extent of bacterial contamination and drug resistance patterns of isolates colonized in colonoscope and endoscope and in relevant personnel. Material and Methods: A total of 107 samples were obtained from staff of endoscopy and colonoscopy units (SEU and SCU) and gastroenterological imaging equipment. For isolation and identification of the bacteria, swab culture method and biochemical identification test were used, respectively. Antimicrobial resistance profiles, multi-drug resistance (MDR) patterns and phenetic relatedness of these isolates were also analyzed according to standard methods. Results: Most frequent pathogenic bacteria among the SEU and gastroenterological imaging related equipments were included S. aureus (20.8 % and 0 %) Enterococcus spp. (0 % and 5.4%) Pseudomonas spp. (0% and 13.5 %), and Clostridium difficile (0% and 12.5%). Analysis of resistance phenotypes showed a high frequency of MDR phenotypes among the SEU (82.1%), and also in endoscopes, colonoscopes, and other equipments (20%, 50% and 100%, respectively). Phylotyping of S. epidermidis isolates showed the role of staff in transmission of resistance strains to medical equipments and also circulation of strains with identical resistance phenotype among the studied samples. Conclusion: High frequency of pathogenic bacteria in colonoscopes, endoscopes and in the staff of endoscopy & colonoscopy units, and also contamination of these instruments with MDR pathogens emphasize the need for proper disinfection of endoscopes and colonoscopes and also instruction of staff in these units. Key words: Bacterial Contamination Endoscope Colonoscope Antimicrobial Resistance Gastrointestinal Disease.

Frequency of Bacterial Contamination and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns in Devices and in Personnel of Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Units

H Alizade

Genital Mycoplasma Infection in Cases of Abortion

MH Shirazi

Abstract Background and Objective: Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma urealyticum are recognized as the main pathogens of urogenital tract. Mycoplasma genitalium can cause several reproductive tract inflammatory syndromes in women. Material and Methods: This study was conducted on 100 women with the history of abortion. The samples were obtained from cervical secretions and remaining products of curettage to diagnose Genital Mycoplasma. All samples were inoculated into PPLO Broth medium and incubated at 37ºC for 3 days. Results: Of 21 Mycoplasma isolates, Mycoplasma hominis was isolated from both cervical secretions and remaining products of curettage (4.26%) Ureaplasma urealyticum was isolated from products of curettage (12.8%), cervical secretions (8.5%) and from both samples (6.38%). Conclusion: Based on the results, a high percentage of women with the history of abortion were infected with these bacteria. Thus, early diagnosis and treatment of these pathogenic organisms are necessary. Key words: Mycoplasma Hominis Ureaplasma Urealyticum Abortion

Frequency of Mold Allergens in Allergic Rhinitis Patients

MR Bonyadi

Abstract Background and Objective: Allergic rhinitis can be stimulated by several allergens. Molds are among these allergens and it is important to assess their frequency in different geographic area. Hence, we aimed at determining the frequency of mold allergens in allergic rhinitis patients referred to specialized clinics of Tabriz Imam Reza hospital, 2011. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on the serums of 90 rhinitis patients diagnosed by specialized physician. Using Immunoblotting method, the level of specific IgE against four molds including Penicillium, Aspergillus, Alternaria and Cladosporium were investigated. Results: Of 90 Patients, 40 were men (44.4%) and 50 were women (55.6%). The participants were between 6 to 53 years and the most were 28-31years. The allergy was related to Penicillium (3.3%), Aspergillus (5.6%), Alternaria (13.3%) and Cladosporium (4.4%). There was a significant statistical relation between age and allergic rhinitis to Alternaria (P=0.011). Conclusion: Molds can grow and proliferate in very humid environments. Because of low humidity climate in Tabriz (in the northwest of Iran), allergy to molds is relatively low in this region. Key words: Rhinitis Allergic Mold Allergy

Virulence of Helicobacter Pylori: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

A Talebi bezminabadi

Abstract Undoubtedly, H. pylori is the major human gastric pathogen, which infects the mucosal epithelium in 50% of world population. However, H. pylori infection is relatively prevalent globally the majority of infected individuals are asymptomatic. The recent epidemiological studies show that the various gastro intestinal complications can be the result of genetic variation in H. pylori strains. To date, different virulence factors had been suggested for H. pylori, but none of them can be a good biomarker for specific gastric disorders. In this review article, we aim to describe a comprehensive view on what we found in H. pylori virulence research in Iran. Hopefully, in parallel with new advances in sequencing systems, we will have better overview of virulence phenomenon of H. pylori in near future. Keywords: Helicobacter pylori, Iran, virulence, homB, dupA

Detection of Telomerase Activity in Breast Tissue of Breast Cancer Patients and Healthy Individuals by the TRAP Assay

J Asadi

Abstract Background and Objective: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Telomerase enzyme is one of the major factors causing the development and proliferation of immortal cells such as cancer cell. The aim of this study was to evaluate telomerase activity in breast tissues of breast cancer patients and healthy people. Material and Methods: In this descriptive study, the samples from 32 patients with malignant tumors and from 24 with benign tumors or healthy individuals were obtained .To assess the relative activity of telomerase in the samples, TRAP assay (PCR-ELISA) was used. Results: The frequency of telomerase activity was 93.75% in patients and 8% in healthy people. Conclusion: The results indicate that the relative activity of telomerase in tumor tissues measured by TRAP assay could be a suitable biomarker for identifying the breast cancer tissue. Keywords: TRAP Assay breast cancer telomerase

Microbiological Contamination of Cosmetic Creams in Tehran

Shirazi

Abstract Background and Objective: Transmission of pathogens by cosmetics is one of the major health complications. Direct contact with contaminated non-standard cosmetics can have irreparable side effects for the consumers. Thus, the evaluation of microbial contamination in cosmetic products is important. The aim of this study was to assess the microbiological contamination of one of frequently used cream. Material and Methods: In the present study, 135 samples of a special moisturizing cream were randomly selected from pharmacies in Tehran. The microbial contamination assessment, sampling and culturing method were based on the protocol (No.3978) of Iranian Institute of Standard and Industrial Research. Results: sixty-two (46%) out of 135 samples were contaminated. The highest and lowest contaminations observed were Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus, respectively. Conclusion: Due to the high contamination rate of cosmetic creams, we recommend extremely monitoring and controlling these products by health centers. Keywords: Cosmetics, Microbial Contamination, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa